fertilizer

noun

fer·​til·​iz·​er ˈfər-tə-ˌlī-zər How to pronounce fertilizer (audio)
: one that fertilizes
specifically : a substance (such as manure or a chemical mixture) used to make soil more fertile

Examples of fertilizer in a Sentence

We only use organic fertilizer in our gardens. They use chemical fertilizers on their lawn.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Residents will learn more about helping to protect our waterways by being water wise and understanding Volusia County’s fertilizer ordinance. Joe Rassel, Orlando Sentinel, 15 Jan. 2025 Other Big Stories Sewage sludge, which farmers use as inexpensive fertilizer, contains chemicals that pose health risks, the E.P.A. said. David Leonhardt, New York Times, 15 Jan. 2025 The researchers are now testing broccoli, squash, beans and alfalfa with different mixes of regolith and fertilizer in both soil types to see if these plants respond better than the corn did. Tom Brown, Space.com, 9 Jan. 2025 Applying fertilizer in winter just wastes product and potentially builds up salts in the potting mix. Andy Wilcox, Better Homes & Gardens, 7 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for fertilizer 

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1661, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of fertilizer was circa 1661

Dictionary Entries Near fertilizer

Cite this Entry

“Fertilizer.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fertilizer. Accessed 22 Jan. 2025.

Kids Definition

fertilizer

noun
fer·​til·​iz·​er ˈfərt-ᵊl-ˌī-zər How to pronounce fertilizer (audio)
: a substance (as manure or a chemical) used to make soil produce larger or more plant life
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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